Nestled into the heart of the Harwood District is the blue jewel, Dolce Riviera. The Italian restaurant evokes a slower pace of time - a leisurely afternoon beside the Italian Riviera, basking in sunlight and all that is right with the world. The elegant yet unpretentious ambience provides the perfect place to steep in a moment with ones you love.

I had been wanting to try Dolce Riviera for months, celebrating the book release seemed a perfect opportunity to experience this gem in it's understated blue-hued glory. The manager and staff were exceptional, thoughtful, willing to go the extra mile the entirety of our evening.

I recommend the Cosmopolitan Bianco or the Limoncello Amalfitano, for dinner the Gnocchi Al Tartufo, and the Tagliata Di Wagyu All Griglia, both excellent choices. Dessert is not to be skipped. The Semifreddo Al Torroncino Salsa Amaretto was the hands down winner.

Whiskey Cake in Las Colinas has only opened it's doors as of last week, but word is already out. We waited a solid 45 for a table - if you want to avoid the likely line, grab a reservation before heading over. The interior of the restaurant is a marriage of Magnolia-esque southern charm and hospitality. People came dressed in everything from Dallas brunch attire, to cutoffs and tees. The vibe is decidedly "come as you are".

Our waiter David was friendly and happy to answer all our questions regarding our drinks and dinner choices. The cocktails here were some of my favorite in ages. Unique takes on many popular prohibition era drinks. The Texas Bluebonnet, Tequila Rose, Beach Please, and The Great Escape are all excellent from the cocktail menu.

We tried the deviled eggs as our appetizer, chicken and waffles for our entree. The eggs were too heavy handed with the mustard for my personal preference, still good. In fact, everything we tried was pretty delicious.

BUT, there is a reason that this restaurant/whiskey bar is named after a dessert! GET THE WHISKEY CAKE. It was so good. I mean, so good I forgot to get a picture good. If you love toffee, you are done for. The whiskey cake arrives as a Texas-sized portion, so enlist the help of a friend or plan on taking some home.

Hey friends! The time has come to include a blog on all things Dallas! Those of you who know me already know how much I love this city, and exploring all it has to offer. For those of you who don't know me yet, I have lived in Dallas for seven years now! I'm keeping this blog pretty simple, pictures and name and maybe a brief recommendation - just to point you in the direction of a fun place to explore and experience for yourself. Whether you are visiting for the weekend or a local who wants to know their city better - CHEERS to new adventures and falling in love with this city!